Recap: Illinois vs. Bradley

Champaign, IL (SportsNetwork.com) - Jon Ekey scored 19 points, one of four starters in double figures for Illinois as, the Fighting Illini captured an 81-55 win over the Bradley Braves in non-conference play at State Farm Center.

Ekey, who cleared seven rebounds, converted 5-of-7 shots behind the 3-point line for the Illini (4-0) in order to remain unbeaten. Rayvonte Rice accounted for 13 points, seven boards and five assists, followed by Tracy Abrams with 12 points and eight rebounds for the hosts. Nnanna Egwu responded with 10 points, seven boards and three blocked shots.

The Braves (4-1) were led by Tyshon Pickett as he tallied a game-high 21 points, adding six boards and four steals before fouling out. Walt Lemon chipped in 12 points, but shot just 4-of-15 from the floor on the evening.

Bradley struggled to find points in the first half, recording just eight through close to 14 minutes, eventually coming away with a 34-19 deficit at the break.

After converting only 28.1 percent from the floor in the opening period, the Braves improved to 44.4 percent after intermission, but at the same time Illinois connected on 53.6 percent from the field and 7-of-11 on the perimeter in order to pull away for the 26-point victory.

Bradley finished the outing a mere 2-of-13 shooting beyond the arc and being beaten on the glass, 49-25.